James Coppinger: Let’s celebrate good times!

Paul Goodwin

James Coppinger says this weekend’s ‘Legends’ game will be a celebration of a golden era in Doncaster Rovers’ history.

John Ryan, Sean O’Driscoll, Dave Penney and Billy Sharp are among the guests set to return to the Keepmoat Stadium in honour of Coppinger.

But the 34-year-old winger says Sunday’s game is not just about him.

Coppinger said: “I can’t wait for it. I want people to come out not just for me but for the people that have played here over the last ten or 11 years, a period that’s probably been the best era at the club.

“We’ve had some great teams, some great characters and some great memories. It’s hard when you’re a player because one day you’re training and the next day you’re at a different club. No one gets the chance to say thank you.

“I thought it would be a great idea to bring everybody back and give the fans an opportunity to come out and support them for one last time and give them a good ovation.

“It should be a good day for everyone. I’m really pleased I’ve had the chance to do this and I’m looking forward to it.”

Since Coppinger joined Rovers from Exeter in 2004 the club has won the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy and twice secured promotion to the Championship.

“I’d like to think that period in the club’s history will leave a lasting legacy,” said Coppinger.

“To think when I arrived I was sat in a portable building at Belle Vue and compare that to where I am now and where the club is now, it’s a massive change.

“Not many clubs can say they’ve come that far in that short period of time.

“So to get the players and managers that played a massive factor in the club progressing back for one last time, and John’s [Ryan] coming back, is fantastic.

“Hopefully it will be a period that stands out in the club’s history.

“The club’s in a fantastic position at the moment and people should be proud of supporting Doncaster Rovers.”